Walking across the stage in an arena packed with family and friends, approximately 400 people received their diplomas on Saturday, May 19, as the University of Wisconsin-Superior celebrated its 116th Spring Commencement.

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Chancellor Renée Wachter presided over the ceremony in Wessman Arena and presented diplomas to students who have earned associate and bachelor's degrees. Graduate students earning their master's and specialist's degrees received their diplomas along with having graduate hoods added to their academic robes. All told, the university granted about 350 undergraduate degrees and 50 graduate degrees.

Delivering the keynote address to graduates was Peggy Metzer, executive director of People's Center Health Services in Minneapolis. She holds a Master of Science in Education Degree in Guidance Counseling from UW-Superior.

Student speakers were Aaron Wainman of Blaine, Minn., and Gabriel Mozzini of Porto Alegre, Brazil. They werechosen for the honor based on academic and student achievements at UW-Superior.

Emily Hammersborg of South Range, Wis., and Nicole Hamerly of Schofield, Wis., served as the student marshals who lead graduates into and out of the Commencement ceremony. Each year two student marshals are chosen from among the junior class based on highest scholastic standing.

UW-Superior engages students for lifelong learning and rewarding careers through more than 26 undergraduate and graduate programs offered on campus along with degrees offered through distance learning. The university is a member of the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges and plays a central role in the University of Wisconsin System's Growth Agenda for Wisconsin.